Prepare Before You Ride
Your first horseback riding lesson is exciting—like opening a door to a whole new adventure. But before you saddle up, a little preparation can go a long way in making your experience smoother, more comfortable, and even more fun.
Whether you’re joining us at Strides Riding Academy in Petaluma or visiting a nearby barn in Santa Rosa, here’s your complete guide to getting ready before you ride.
1. Dress for the Ride, Not the Runway
When it comes to horseback riding, comfort and functionality always win. Think of it like meeting a new friend—you want to make a good impression, but you also want to be able to move and feel at ease.
Pants: Wear long, fitted pants such as jeans or leggings. Avoid shorts—saddles and bare legs don’t mix well.
Shirt: A breathable, fitted shirt works best. Loose clothing can flap and distract you (and your horse).
Shoes: Closed-toe shoes with a small heel (like boots) are a must. Sneakers aren’t ideal for stirrups, but if that’s all you have, we will be happy to pass along recommendations on where to buy boots after your first lesson!
💡 Tip: In Petaluma’s mild but sometimes breezy weather, layering is smart. A lightweight jacket or hoodie that you can remove if you warm up is perfect.
2. Know Your Gear
Even though we’ll provide the essential equipment, it helps to know what’s what:
Helmet: Protects your head (we’ve got certified riding helmets on hand for your first lesson only) We can recommend where to purchase a certified helmet after the first lesson.
Saddle: Where you’ll sit during the ride. At Strides, we use English saddles only for all lessons.
Reins: Your main communication tool with your horse, along with your legs and body cues.
You don’t need to bring your own gear for your first lesson—we’ll provide what you need. If you choose to bring your own, be sure it’s clean and in good condition. After your first ride, you’ll need to have your own certified riding helmet and riding boots for future lessons.
3. Eat Light & Hydrate
A big meal right before riding can make you feel sluggish or uncomfortable in the saddle. Aim for a light snack like a banana, granola bar, or yogurt about an hour before your lesson. And yes—drink water before you arrive.
We’ve had students come from all over Petaluma, Santa Rosa, and Rohnert Park who are surprised by how much riding feels like a workout. Staying hydrated makes it more enjoyable.
4. Arrive Early for a Calm Start
If your lesson starts at 10:30 AM, aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early. This gives you time to:
Meet your instructor without feeling rushed. Please note that they will only be available at the official start time of your lesson.
Use the restroom before you get in the saddle
In Petaluma, traffic can get busy around school drop-off times, so plan ahead to avoid the stress of running late.
5. Get to Know Your Horse Before You Ride
Horses are incredibly perceptive. They can pick up on your energy before you even step into the arena.
When you meet your horse, take a few seconds to:
Say hello softly
Let them sniff your hand
Notice their color, markings, and personality (yes, every horse has one!)
Building that quick connection will help you feel more at ease once you’re riding.
6. Set Small, Fun Goals for the Lesson
For your first lesson, don’t pressure yourself to “master” riding right away. Instead, think about goals like:
Learning how to start and stop your horse smoothly
Practicing good posture in the saddle
Feeling confident holding the reins
This way, every little success feels like a win—and it makes you want to come back for more.
7. Ask Questions—Lots of Them
Your instructor is there to help you learn and enjoy the experience. Wondering why your horse moved sideways instead of forward? Ask. Not sure how to adjust your stirrups? Ask.
At Strides, we love curious riders because it shows you’re engaged and eager to improve.
8. End on a Positive Note
After your ride, thank your horse (a gentle pat works wonders) and your instructor. Take a few minutes to reflect on what you enjoyed most—it might be the feel of the wind as you trotted, or simply being around such a majestic animal.
You can even jot it down later so you can look back on how far you’ve come when you’re a few lessons in.
Petaluma & Santa Rosa Bonus Tip
If you’re riding in Petaluma or Santa Rosa, keep in mind that barns can have slightly different rules and procedures. Some may want riders to help untack the horse, while others handle it for you. We’ll always guide you through the process so you feel comfortable.
Final Thought
Preparing before you ride isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up ready to enjoy your time in the saddle. A little planning before your first horseback riding lesson can turn nervous jitters into genuine excitement.
And once you feel that first moment of connection with your horse, you’ll understand why so many riders in Petaluma and Santa Rosa keep coming back for more.
Want to dive deeper into your riding journey? Explore our New Rider Blog Series for more beginner-friendly tips, or check out our Introductory Lessons to get started today.
Fun Horse Trivia of the Day
Did you know? A horse’s ears can rotate almost a full 180 degrees, thanks to 10 different muscles—meaning they can listen in two directions at once!
💻 Stay connected with Strides beyond the barn:
📹 Watch riding tips and student highlights on our YouTube Channel
🎵 Join the fun side of barn life on TikTok